Emotional Moment in Columbus as Monahan and Gaudreau's Daughter Point to His Jersey After Monahan's Goal

Tonight is the Blue Jackets' home opener, and as such, it is the first time they have played a game in Nationwide Arena since Johnny and his brother Matthew tragically passed away in August. Unsurprisingly, the Blue Jackets made a big effort to honor the brothers tonight ahead of the game. As part of the ceremony, Gaudreau's number 13 was retired, and they raised a banner for him.

It was an extremely emotional moment for the players on both teams, but especially those who knew Johnny personally as many of the Blue Jackets did. Perhaps none knew him better than Sean Monahan, who spent nine seasons with Johnny in Columbus from 2013 to 2021. The veteran center even signed in Columbus this summer, in part to be reunited with his friend. Tonight he had a special moment as he scored the opening goal of the game, immediately pointing to Johnny's banner in celebration.

The celebration mimicked Gaudreau's daughter, who was pointing to the banner as it was being raised.

This is not even the first time Monahan has had an emotional goal this season. On Saturday, Monahan scored in the team's first win of the season, earning player of the game honors. Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner revealed a new team tradition after that one, naming Monahan the donkey of the game. Johnny loved to call his teammates donkeys, so the team had a custom set of donkey ears made for the player of the game to wear.

Hopefully, the Blue Jackets will outperform expectations this season, giving every player a chance to wear the donkey ears. Even if they don't though, it will serve as a reminder that hockey is just a game. Most things in life matter more at the end of the day.